NEXUS Community Support Society

NEXUS Community Support Society is a registered Canadian nonprofit organization based in the Kootenay region of British Columbia. Established through the merger of two longstanding societies in 2021, NEXUS supports people with diverse abilities by promoting inclusive living, meaningful community connections, and empowerment to thrive. The organization operates as a registered charity and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), reflecting its commitment to high-quality services.

History

NEXUS Community Support Society traces its roots back to the early 1950s with Dr. William James Endicott's founding of the Kootenay Society for Handicapped Children, the region’s first advocacy group for inclusive communities. This society spawned several chapters across the Kootenays, which eventually became independent nonprofit societies.

Two key predecessor organizations were the Cranbrook Society for Community Living and the Creston Society for Community Living, both originating in 1956 to support individuals with developmental differences and diverse abilities. In 2021, these two societies consolidated to form NEXUS, uniting their legacy, resources, and expertise to better serve the Kootenay region.

Mission and Values

NEXUS Community Support Society’s mission is to support all people in the Kootenays to live with connections for life in inclusive communities. The organization emphasizes:

• Choice: Enabling individuals to have freedom and control over their lives.
• Respect: Recognizing the inherent strengths, abilities, and value of every person.
• Belonging: Affirming the right of all individuals to be full citizens within their communities.
• Diversity: Embracing and accepting individual differences.

Services

NEXUS provides a broad spectrum of services aimed at enhancing living, working, and community inclusion for people with diverse abilities, including:

• Low-income housing specifically for seniors.
• Residential care programs for adults, children, and youth.
• Supportive independent living arrangements.
• Outreach support and community inclusion initiatives.
• Employment readiness and supportive employment programs.
• Personal support initiatives designed to meet individual needs.
• Specialized programs such as the Stepping Out Program.

These services work in concert to empower individuals to build meaningful relationships, secure employment, and find housing that supports their independence and well-being.

Accreditation and Governance

NEXUS Community Support Society holds accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), ensuring adherence to international standards in rehabilitation and community support services.

The Society is governed by a dedicated team that oversees the organization's operations and upholds its commitment to values-driven service delivery.

Geographic Reach

NEXUS serves the Interior region of British Columbia, particularly the Kootenay area, providing localized support tailored to the needs of individuals and families within these communities.

Conclusion

With over six decades of history embedded in the Kootenays, NEXUS Community Support Society continues to be a vital nonprofit organization championing inclusive community living for people with diverse abilities. Through its comprehensive services, strong values, and collaborative legacy, NEXUS fosters connections that enable individuals to thrive across all stages of life.